Is Nicusor Dan Leading in the Romanian Presidential Runoff?
Synopsis
In a thrilling political landscape, early exit polls from Romania's presidential runoff show Nicusor Dan ahead of George Simion. With significant implications for the country's future, the results could reshape Romania's political framework. Stay tuned for the unfolding drama as we delve deeper into this pivotal election.
Key Takeaways
Nicusor Dan currently leads the runoff with 54.9% of the votes.
George Simion trails with 45.1% .
The election is a re-run due to previous allegations of irregularities.
Dan advocates for European integration, while Simion promotes a nationalistic agenda.
Polling stations were open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. .
Bucharest, May 19 (NationPress) Early exit polls indicate that Nicusor Dan, the mayor of Bucharest, is in the lead against his opponent George Simion in Romania's presidential runoff.
The AVANGARDE Socio-Behavioral Studies Group conducted an exit poll revealing that Dan, an independent candidate, achieved 54.9% of the votes, while Simion, leader of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), garnered 45.1%, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
A different exit poll from the Center for Urban and Regional Sociology (CURS) confirmed similar results, with Dan receiving 54.1% and Simion obtaining 45.9%.
These polls were limited to polling stations within Romania, as over 1.64 million Romanian citizens participated from abroad by 9:00 p.m., according to the Permanent Electoral Authority's real-time data.
This election marks the second round of a re-run, following the annulment of the 2024 presidential results due to claims of campaign irregularities and foreign meddling.
In the first round held earlier this month, Simion led with 40.96% of the votes, while Dan received 20.99%.
Simion, aged 38, is a vocal critic of the European Union and has campaigned with a 'Romania First' agenda, promising to cease military support for Ukraine, implement tax reductions, and advocate for deregulation. In contrast, Dan, aged 55, positions himself as a pro-European reformist.
According to Romania's constitution, the president holds significant power over foreign relations, defense, and judicial appointments, including the authority to appoint the prime minister.
Polling stations operated from 7 a.m. local time (0400 GMT) until 9 p.m. (1800 GMT), with preliminary results expected late Sunday night or early Monday morning.
Point of View
We remain committed to delivering unbiased and reliable news. The early exit polls reflect a significant shift in Romanian politics, and it’s crucial for the electorate to stay informed about the candidates and their platforms. Our coverage will continue to provide the insights necessary for understanding this election.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is leading in the Romanian presidential runoff?
Nicusor Dan is currently leading in the Romanian presidential runoff with 54.9% of the votes according to preliminary exit polls.
What are the main campaign platforms of the candidates?
Nicusor Dan presents himself as a pro-European reformer, while George Simion advocates a 'Romania First' platform, opposing military aid to Ukraine.
When will the final results be announced?
Preliminary results are expected late Sunday night or early Monday morning.
What triggered the re-run of the presidential election?
The re-run was initiated following the annulment of the 2024 presidential results due to alleged campaign irregularities and foreign interference.
How many Romanians voted from abroad?
Over 1.64 million Romanian citizens cast their votes from abroad.
